Sector First Assembly on Restructuring Journey of Myanmar Sector

On 17 January 2025, the Sector Assembly welcomed the sisters and began with a half-hour adoration in silence. The province leader introduced the second step of the restructuring process, emphasizing the importance of open and constructive conversations, addressing invisible issues, and building relationships. Sr. Rebecca welcomed the sisters and encouraged them to voice their voices and listen to others’ voices to build relationships.

Sr. Regina, the member of restructuring team, outlined the assembly goals: “fostering constructive, authentic dialogue and communion on the journey of restructuring” and objectives:

• To create environments and practices that encourage meaningful communication, genuine connection and mutual understanding among individuals and the Myanmar Sector.
• To promote open-ended discussion where participants feel safe to express their views respectfully
• To encourage individuals to share personal experiences and values without fear of judgement
• To cultivate self-awareness to align(integrate) words and actions with true intentions
• To emphasize shared humanity over differences

The facilitators lead the group in a creative way to enhance the goal and objectives. The first day was given a space for formation where everyone reflected on the responses made by the whole sector before the gathering began. The assembly then listened to the heartfelt sharing of formators and the vocation promotion team. The second day was on community life and leadership. The whole group had an opportunity to have an honest look on the reality of our community life and figure out the desired community life. In the second part of the day, the group worked on leadership. In the evening, the washing of the feet ritual was done with meaningful qualities of service, purification, and humility, and the day concluded with the Lord’s prayer. The session aimed to foster a sense of unity and shared experiences, fostering a sense of unity and support among the sisters. On the third day, finance matters were discussed where the group was facilitated to reflect on the reality of our sector and the need for our future journey.
In the last part of the assembly, the group was updated with the information of invitation of new mission, jubilee celebration and the movement of Mental Health and Psychosocial Support, Safeguarding, communication teams. The facilitators then concluded the assembly with Gratitude ceremony.

Each member participated wholeheartedly and engaged in with compassion and honesty. A strong sense of union and renewed hope was manifested throughout the assembly. Courage to be kind and to listen with heart brought the whole group a sacred space where everyone is safe and empowered.
 
Reported by Elizabeth Joseph